Philosophy Discussion: Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion by David Hume

We will be meeting to discuss Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion by David Hume. This text is one of the most influential works in the philosophy of religion. Written in the form of a dialogue, the text stages a debate between three characters—Demea, Cleanthes, and Philo—over whether reason alone can establish the existence and nature of God.
Through their exchanges, Hume examines some of philosophy's oldest questions: Does the apparent design of the universe imply a designer? Can human beings infer anything meaningful about a divine creator from observing the natural world? What are the limits of reason when confronted with questions of ultimate reality?
Although written in the eighteenth century, the Dialogues remain strikingly contemporary. Hume combines rigorous argument with wit and ambiguity, leaving readers to grapple with competing perspectives rather than presenting straightforward answers. The work stands at the crossroads of philosophy, theology, and the emerging scientific worldview of the Enlightenment.
Join us for a discussion of Hume's critique of natural theology, the argument from design, and the enduring tension between faith, reason, and skepticism.

This meeting will take place at 6:30 PM July 29 at the UTS Library.